Thank you for visiting #ksedchat. We welcome all educators to our chat that runs Mondays at 8 p.m. Central. Though many of our educators have their homes in Kansas, all teachers are welcome to pop in and join in on the learning.
My name is Gil Still and I am a 4th grade teacher in Dodge City, Kansas. Tonight we will be discussing major issues in public education. My plans over break are to relax. Introduce yourself and tell us what your plans are for Christmas break. #ksedchat
My name is Gil Still and I am a 4th grade teacher in Dodge City, Kansas. Tonight we will be discussing major issues in public education. My plans over break are to relax. Introduce yourself and tell us what your plans are for Christmas break. #ksedchat
My name is Jose Martinez and I am a high school special education teacher in Dodge City, Kansas. My plans over break is to read about cultural relevant pedagogy! #ksedchat
Hello friends! Katie, edu consultant @ESSDACK! I'm planning on working from home while my kiddo is home on break! Going to sneak in some baking, crafting, movies, and shopping when I can! #ksedchat
Jason from Buhler. HS ELA-T. I plan to spend time with family, binge watch a show (or 2), and, of course, watch football. There are a couple of book titles that have been bouncing around that I want to check out as well. #ksedchat
Michaela Stevens from Garden City, KS. I teach 5th-grade social studies, science, and writing. My plans over break are to relax and see family! #ksedchat
Hey #ksedchat! Sam from Buhler! 9-12 ELA teacher. Excited to be here tonight! My plans over Christmas break are to get caught up on grading, housework, and snuggles from my kids.
Good evening! Jill from Cheney checking in tonight fo as long as my eyes will stay open. š“ I teach MS SocStud and the Teaching & Training pathway for the HS. Over break my kids will still have me up before 7, no rushing around in the AM š #KSedchat
#ksedchat - Mary Myers - Kansas Learning Network. My plans over break are to be lazy, enjoy family and read a few books that are useless and have zero research in them!
Hi #ksedchat I'm Nick from Towanda and @circleusd375. I have reading, some light video gaming and a whole bunch of time with the kids scheduled for break!!!
Hi #ksedchat! Late, but here! I'm Kara, from KS but now in NYC - fighting off being sick because we still have finals this week. Eek! (So I might not stay for the whole chat...sorry!)
We must continue to rethink and redesign the way we teach. We must show students what it feels like to engage in meaningful and exhilarating learning! Students should leave our classrooms being life long learners! #ksedchat
A1: Testing vs. Learning (yes, I need to assess what my students know, but there is way too much standardized testing). Thanks @KsCommissioner for cutting the testing down. #ksedchat
A1: There are many. One that I feel like I can work to improve is the transition of the teacher as the sole source of knowledge to the facilitator of learning. Keeping students engaged in learning from bell to bell with authentic learning is so important. #ksedchat
A1: I see time as a big issue. There seems to be more and more that needs to be done and less time to do it all. This is something that can be hard to explain to non-educators and pre service teachers. There's a lot of time to invest to do this job well. #KSedchat
#ksedchat A1: Do I have to pick just one? #1. Childhood trauma #2. The equitable funding of education...especially in KS #3. Admin. who micro-mangage (not in my case) #4. Developmentally in appropriate curriculum. I'm sure I can come up with more, if I really think about it
A1: Connecting student interests and goals with curriculum. The struggle with relevance with such a diverse pool of students. It is very difficult but worth the effort. #ksedchat
That and gum chewing in class. #justkidding
A1 TIME. We are asked to do so much, but there is not time to collaborate or be strategic in planning with all steakholders on board ...including families #KSedchat
RT AngSuperPowers : Q1 A huge issue in education today is how to serve the needs of our diverse student population using a system built years ago. #ksedchat
This is something I am constantly trying to improve on. And you know any time this year that I have backed off, less lecture, more student centered learning the kids STILL GET IT without me just telling them! It's encouraging! #ksedchat
A1: Another one - student centered vs adult centered. We often don't do what's best for Ss because it's hard for us adults. Let's get out Ss way, okay? :) #ksedchat
A1: I'm going to place a tie on childhood trauma and the discrepancy between how Ts are taught to teach reading and the brain science that we are just now able to get into classrooms. #ksedchat
A1) A major issue I see in education is that not all students feel valued. Some even feel inferior to others. Each and every student should feel respected and that they matter. #ksedchat
A1) A major issue I see in education is that not all students feel valued. Some even feel inferior to others. Each and every student should feel respected and that they matter. #ksedchat
A2: If a student's brain is in survival mode, it cannot learn. It's that simple. We are doing more than teaching content; we are working to reach the whole child. #ksedchat
Poverty puts learning on the back burner for affected students. Who gives a flip about algebra if you are hungry? Or worse yet, your baby sister is hungry? #ksedchat
A2. Poverty causes Ss to come to school with other issues on their mind outside of academics. This causes a multitude of other things to happen in the classroom. Distracted, withdrawn, disruptive, etc. #ksedchat
A2) Students from low SES are statistically underrepresented in gifted education. We need educate gen ed Ts about Gifted so they can look for Gifted traits. Then we need a multifaceted approach to identification b/c the tests are middle class eurocentric. #ksedchat
A2) Their mind is t necessarily on what is being taught. A lot of students come to school to feel loved. We need to be able to meet their social/emotional needs. #ksedchat
A2: Poverty can be a major obstacle. Kids might lack basic needs, be stressed and not ready to learn. Schools need to be places where they find adult support and security so that they can be comfortable and learn. #ksedchat
A2) I think the best thing we can do to prepare for all students including the ones that are affected by poverty is KNOW the student! Building relationships with all students will help plan your lesson plan and make it impact more students! #ksedchat
A2 So Much! Ts have to help with belonging and safety! If kiddos are hungry or wearing clothes from yesterday how can we expect them to be ready to learn? Ts have to stop and LISTEN to Ss #ksedchat
A2) Poverty effects Ss by those who are hungry; tired because they have to care for siblings when they are a child themselves; worried parents canāt pay bills (water electric) not having support at home for continued learning; feeling inadequate due to lack of money etc #ksedchat
A2 How does it potentially not might be a shorter list sadly. We need to be prepared to try to meet their needs as they arise (honestly any kid though) #ksedchat
A2 So many ways. These are my kids coming in exhausted because they had to work late last night. Or were babysitting siblings. Or didn't get supper. #ksedchat
A2: A2: We must continue to make sure that students needs are being met before we worry about content. There is always Google to learn about content :)! There is not always someone to provide warmths, food and basic needs. Be that person :)! #ksedchat
A2: Students have many other worries and focus other than whats being taught in front of them. We can meet them where they are, with a compassionate. caring, and understanding attitude. #ksedchat
Poverty puts learning on the back burner for affected students. Who gives a flip about algebra if you are hungry? Or worse yet, your baby sister is hungry? #ksedchat
A2: Poverty is a different culture within the classroom. It can effect everything. I am wanting to learn more about what we can do for students living in poverty in the classroom. #KSedchat
#ksedchat -A2 - We must remember to not group kids into the "poverty mentality" that because where they live, they can't learn. We provide them opportunities and experiences and love!
A2 shelter, food, love has to come first. School should become hub of the community. Serve students free breakfast and lunch, dinner free for all families. Relieve the stress of making/buying food and Ps will have time at home to love and help their kids. #ksedchat
A2: In what way does it not affect S learning? At the core, the brain is not ready to learn when in survival mode. We can start by releasing judgment, remove class barriers, and love them. #ksedchat
A2) Students from low SES are statistically underrepresented in gifted education. We need educate gen ed Ts about Gifted so they can look for Gifted traits. Then we need a multifaceted approach to identification b/c the tests are middle class eurocentric. #ksedchat
There are some amazing resources out there for that! Have you ever heard @PovertyEdge before? She has some powerful insight that will rock your world. #ksedchat
A2: In what way does it not affect S learning? At the core, the brain is not ready to learn when in survival mode. We can start by releasing judgment, remove class barriers, and love them. #ksedchat
I love how you phrased this! I have a S that needs just five minutes of peace and quiet to start his day and then he is ready to go! He says that his home is LOUD! #KSedchat
A2: Pt. 2: And all too often, educators forget that for most students, getting to school is the true victory of the day. Let's meet students at the door with affirmation. Be kind for you never know the battles a person is fighting. #ksedchat
Yes! I am planning in on having my #futureteachers Skype with her sometime next semester when we talk poverty as part of our outside factors the effect inside the classroom. #KSedchat
This is true to an extent. Not every child in poverty is experiencing the same level of survival. Get to know your kids, their families, and seek to understand each individual situation instead of assuming that an income level is the sole determinant of their situation. #ksedchat
#ksedchat -A2 - We must remember to not group kids into the "poverty mentality" that because where they live, they can't learn. We provide them opportunities and experiences and love!
A2: So many ways. It's hard to worry about school when you're worried about where you will sleep or what you will eat. Can't do homework when you are busy working - or babysitting so mom and/or dad can work. #ksedchat
A3: There is nothing more important that we can do than to set up classrooms where every child feels safe. We must create a family of learners. We will succeed together! Creating a safe environment is key to success!
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A2: jumping in late. Some Ss we can't even relate to. If you are up half night taking care of siblings or parent hard to come to school to learn or do "homework" must change our thinking meet their needs #KSedchat
Re A2: Vice News had riveting story tonight about student caregivers and how some schools are finding ways to serve them, esp in families that make too much $ to be eligible for social services. Not online yet.
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A3 At the secondary level, it's all about empathy and articulating that everybody's being is valid. At elementary, I love these resources: https://t.co/iwZ9j2x8j2#ksedchat
A3) We must make sure to provide the appropriate interventions. Interventions for social skills and behavioral skills are just as important as academics. #ksedchat
A3: setting up a classroom in a professional manner where there is an environment of respect. Next building relationships and keeping channels of communication open for students to discuss concerns. #ksedchat
A3) Teach Digital Citizenship to all students in all grades. Students use technology for different reasons as they grow and mature. Teaching students about technology respectfully will aid in bullying and harassment!#ksedchat
A3: We continually talk and practice community norms. My class requires a LOT of student interaction/participation. If something starts to go negative, we pause, talk about norms and how to disagree with ideas, not personal attacks. #ksedchat
A3. Teaching Ss good social emotional skills helps bullying. It wonāt eliminate it, but it helps. Technically, we deal with bullies our whole lives, we need skills and tools to handle and cope with such situations. #ksedchat
A3: We can no longer tolerate the "we were just joking" mentality. Conversations about actions must be had - we see it, we talk about it. Safe places for students need to exist which is why building trust between teachers and students is so important. #ksedchat
A3: sometimes so hard b/c sneaky and under the table and not reported. Relationships. Moving around room. Notice posture, facial expressions. #ksedchat
A3: create a class where they have voice. I have a kuddos and concerns box. It can be anonymous. I will ask them questions like What would you change about me? Do you feel valued? I don't get upset by responses #KSedchat
A3: Building relationships and a classroom of respect. But also in educating students on bullying, empathy, and how to react in these situations. #KSedchat
@ksedchat A3: Our PreK motto is "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." We talk about being not being bucket dippers and being bucket fillers. If there happen to be put-downs, we lead the Ss through the apology scenario.
A3: Later Tweeter! Tolerate no disrespect amongst students! Show kids that you will do anything for them. I am willing to do everything to make a student feel safe! #bullyingisreal#ksedchat
A3 The conversation about bullying extends into building students' civic engagement. Understanding the 1st amendment is key. That's a big argument in my school. #ksedchat
No, thatās no it at all. If something has to be justified, it isnāt funny. That is the conversation that is had. Said nothing about not being near each other. But it is important to teach Ss how to get out of a situation like that. #ksedchat
A3: This may not really answer the question... We need to teach kids the difference between being rude, being mean, and bullying. While none are appropriate there has become some level of calling wolf on bullying when it was an isolated non-targeted event. #ksedchat
And I may have misinterpreted your reply. Are you saying that is how most handle it? If so, I completely agree that it is not something that helps. #ksedchat
A3: This may not really answer the question... We need to teach kids the difference between being rude, being mean, and bullying. While none are appropriate there has become some level of calling wolf on bullying when it was an isolated non-targeted event. #ksedchat
A4) Racism and sexual orientation discrimination is something we can't be afraid to speak about. These are both issues that are out there. We need to let our students know that they matter and that being who they are is all they need to do. #ksedchat
A4: We have a motto in our class: Everyone you meet has something to teach you. By valuing EVERY. SINGLE. PERSON. we create a community of respectful learners. Embrace diversity! CELEBRATE EVERYONE! #ksedchat
A3) Our School has a bully box for concerns but last year, we started a shout-outs box too. Now, kids are reporting others that are showing kindness much more than bullying!!! #ksedchat
A4 Literature is such a powerful tool open discussions and allow Ss to stand in other's shoes. That includes "their" lit too, such as music, films, modern lit. #ksedchat
My guess is that this is probably because people donāt know how to handle it. Educating about intervention techniques in regards to bullying is important. #ksedchat
#ksedchat very true.... we have/had gotten to the point of everything being called bullying..... just b/c they made your kid feel bad doesnt mean it is bullying. it's not right, but it's not bullying.
A4: I model kindness. I do not care your gender, race, sexuality, identity. If you are in my class, I value you. The kids follow our lead - and we know that because racism, sexism, etc. is not something we are born with. We learn from our environment. #ksedchat
A4 I cannot remember the exact title, but I found & shared a book, I think it was called "Invisible Izzy?" It was about a girl who changed everything about herself and became invisible! It was a great lesson on being yourself and accepting others! #ksedchat
A4) You first help students form their own identities by viewing teaching students using a diverse curriculum that uses different viewpoints. Curriculum that diverse and values race, sexual orientation... #ksedchat
A4: Offer lots of opportunities for my kids to āclimb into [othersā] skin and walk around in it.ā And again creating an environment of open dialogue and mutual respect. #ksedchat
Also I taught in Mexico, in Brazil, and in China. I love celebrating holidays from these beautiful countries through music, dance, food, and literature.. oh and language #KSedchat
#ksedchat - A4 - Have students/adults find the thing that makes us all similar. Heart. Then, not be afraid to recognize, have conversations about & appreciate differences. How might it look if we quit saying we are all the same but said - I acknowledge & love ur differences?
A4: This is one area where social science curriculum is full of examples to pull from. There are so many times to show the value and triumph of the individual in the face of hate or tyranny. Then individually modeling respect. #ksedchat
A4: I think talking about real people with real stories and opening up about personal growth can help too. I share the stories of family and friends (with permission). It can help show how people views change based on perspective. #KSedchat
A4) You first help students form their own identities by teaching students using a diverse curriculum that uses different viewpoints. Curriculum that's diverse and values race, sexual orientation... #ksedchat
#ksedchat A4 there was an interesting news piece recently (dont remember if local or national) about two girls, 3 or 4, who consider themselves "twins", one is black and one is white, even make their mothers dress them alike
A4 My GSA students tell me that an inclusive curriculum is everything to them. To see relatives themselves reflected in what they learn at schools makes them feel valued. Literature is a great way to build those mirrors: https://t.co/cwvJJ4ySoS#ksedchat
Yes! Iāll add, Curriculum that uses 1st person narratives so the viewpoint is actually someoneās viewpoint not an interpretation of the viewpoint! #KSedchat
A4) You first help students form their own identities by viewing teaching students using a diverse curriculum that uses different viewpoints. Curriculum that diverse and values race, sexual orientation... #ksedchat
A4 My GSA students tell me that an inclusive curriculum is everything to them. To see themselves reflected in what they learn at schools makes them feel valued. Literature is a great way to build those mirrors: https://t.co/cwvJJ4ySoS#ksedchat
#ksedchat A4 there was an interesting news piece recently (dont remember if local or national) about two girls, 3 or 4, who consider themselves "twins", one is black and one is white, even make their mothers dress them alike
#ksedchat A5 i think most educators do not like discussing these issues at all..."just let me teach my subject" (btw what % of T's are on twitter or any other forum...)
A5: I don't think they are easy to discuss because there are so many possible answers - which is why we should seek to understand, not to be right. We have to fall on the side of "what is best for students" no matter how uncomfortable it makes us feel. #ksedchat
A4: Create global connections in your classroom, bring real issues and real people into the four walls of your room that do not exist in your community. #PBL can help you do this. #ksedchat
A5: The discussions are happening more which is needed. As that happens it becomes easier. There is so many different and positive ways to improve teaching but it's difficult to get an entire staff on the same discussion at the same time w/ the same positive goal. #ksedchat
A5: I think depending on the age and location these can be scary topics to approach. MS kids in small town KS (many times) have a limited perspective based on what they hear at home. I often find myself playing devils advocate to teach them opposite views. #KSedchat
A5: It is vital that we discuss these topics. For far to long we have ignored it. We must continue to engage in meaningful dialogue to ensure that all students are successful in our classrooms and school!
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A5: I see lots of teachers afraid to approach these topics at the high school level because they fear fallout from parents who have opposing viewpoints. #ksedchat
A5) NO! These are difficult topics to discuss! BUT! having the mentality that "I don't see color" is detrimental to actually helping students! We must embrace changes to have a future that focuses on equity! #ksedchat
A5 Easy to discuss. No. Worthwhile. Yes. A S told me told me this year "If we can't talk about these things here, where we should feel safe. where are we going to discuss it?" That spoke volumes to me. #ksedchat
A5) No, I do not think it is easy for educators to discuss some of these topics. I was even hesitant posting some of these questions. However, discussions like this need to be had for the betterment of our Ss. They EACH matter! #ksedchat
#ksedchat - I think equity and achievement gap are conversations that make some feel uncomfortable because the true and real conversation is about race. However, it's a conversation we must have or we continue to say we are "ok' with allowing the gap to remain.
Thanks @MrGStill for a great #ksedchat tonight! Now to bake my tenth (and final) tray of cookies for the night! Enjoy the holidays and take time to relax!
